FGFR-targeted treatments for stomach and esophagus cancer
Targeting FGFR Alterations in Gastroesophageal Cancer
Developing new drug combinations that target FGFR2 changes for people with gastroesophageal (stomach and esophagus) cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11140393 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project focuses on cancers of the stomach and esophagus that have FGFR2 gene changes, which occur in about 10% of patients and are linked to poorer outcomes. Researchers plan to create and test biparatopic antibodies and antibody–drug conjugates (ADCs) designed to overcome resistance seen with current FGFR kinase inhibitors. The team will use patient tumor samples, lab-grown cancer models, and molecular analysis of resistance mutations to guide these designs. Findings are intended to inform better treatment strategies and support future clinical testing for patients with FGFR2-altered tumors.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with gastroesophageal adenocarcinoma whose tumors show FGFR2 amplification or fusion, especially those who have progressed on FGFR inhibitors, would be the most relevant candidates.
Not a fit: Patients whose tumors do not have FGFR2 alterations or who have other cancer types are unlikely to benefit from these FGFR2-directed approaches.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could lead to treatments that work for longer and overcome resistance to current FGFR-targeted drugs.
How similar studies have performed: Earlier medicines like the anti-FGFR2 antibody bemarituzumab and the FGFR2-selective TKI RLY4008 have shown promise, but resistance often develops, motivating this new combination approach.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Columbia University Health Sciences — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ryeom, Sandra — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Ryeom, Sandra
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.